TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - Parents would be able to move their children to schools across county lines under a sweeping education bill passed by the Florida Legislature.
The Florida Senate passed the measure Friday by a 29-10 vote, while it cleared the Florida House on an 82-33 margin.
The legislation combined several unrelated education measures into one comprehensive bill. But one of the big changes would allow parents to move their children to schools in other counties if there is enough room.
The bill has many changes for high school athletics. It allows private schools to join the Florida High School Athletic Association on a per-sport basis and makes students who transfer immediately eligible. It also adds stricter penalties for schools and coaches found guilty of recruiting violations.
The legislation also would change how families are notified of their right to skip the daily Pledge of Allegiance.
